Data readout and recording apparatus

ABSTRACT

A punch tape reader apparatus controlling item and total printing of a lister-adder machine is cyclically operable to read binary-coded decimal data from the tape by sensing the punched holes a tape line at a time, and serially transmit signal representations of individual decimal value digits of each line of data thus sensed to circuits energizing solenoid actuators for machine keys corresponding to the decimal digit values read. Data-sensing proceeds when reciprocative sensor rods guided in knife-edged openings descend by gravity upon each tape line to direct seeker pins on the rods through holes in the tape. Magnets affixed to the rods move therewith such that rods finding holes position magnets opposite to glass sealed, magnetically actuated switches. A multicontact stepping relay operates to scan the switches and initiate a sequence of functions wherein data sensed and imparted to the switches by actuation thereof is transferred through a binary-decimal to decimal converter and thence to the key-actuating solenoids. A counter registering operational cycles in presettable to control item printing after every predetermined number of items sensed, and a further counter registering a number of items printed is presettable to control total taking after every predetermined number of items printed.

United States Patent Harold 0. Wires Columbus;

Samuel E. Rickly, Grove City; Harold E. Cox, Columbus; Duane M. Preble,

[72] Inventors Columbus, all of Ohio [21] Appl. No. 12,406 [22] Filed Feb. 18, 1970 [45] Patented Jan. 4, 1972 [73] Assignee The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Interior [54] DATA READOUT AND RECORDING APPARATUS Primary Examiner-Maynard R. Wilbur Assistant Examiner-Thomas .l. Sloyan Attorneys-Ernest S. Cohen and Gersten Sadowsky ABSTRACT: A punch tape reader apparatus controlling item and total printing of a lister-adder machine is cyclically operable to read binary-coded decimal data from the tape by sensing the punched holes a tape line at a time, and serially transmit signal representations of individual decimal value digits of each line of data thus sensed to circuits energizing solenoid actuators for machine keys corresponding to the decimal digit values read. Data-sensing proceeds when reciprocative sensor rods guided in knife-edged openings descend by gravity upon each tape line to direct seeker pins on the rods through holes in the tape. Magnets affixed to the rods move therewith such that rods finding holes position magnets opposite to glass sealed, magnetically, actuated switches. A multicontact stepping relay operates to scan the switches and initiate a sequence of functions wherein data sensed and imparted to the switches by actuation thereof is transferred through a binary-decimal to decimal converter and thence to the key-actuating solenoids. A counter registering operational cycles in presettable to control item printing after every predetermined number of items sensed, and a further counter registering a number of items printed is presettable to control total taking after every predetermined number of items printed.

' mama JAN 4:912

SHEET UlUF 1O lNVENTO/PS HAROLD 0. WIRES SAMUEL E. R/GKLY HAROLD E. 00X

DUANE M. PREBLE ATTOR/V s PATENTED JAN 41972 SHEET UZUF 1O PATENTEUJAN 4x972 3.632.990

SHEET [IBM 10 mtmfium 4m 3.832.990 SHEET UQUF 10 PATENTEUJAN 41972 SHEET OBUF 1O PATENTEDJAN 4m:

SHEET OBUF 10 I6 I7 18 I9 20 2| 22 23 24 mun-tum 41972 SHEET DSOF 1O DATA READOUT AND RECORDING APPARATUS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The invention is an improvement in the field of record sensing and data storage and recording equipment. In particular, the invention relates to an electromechanical and electronic apparatus for accomplishing a transference of data from record media, whereon data coding is represented by physical alterations in the media, such as punches, depressions, to storage and further record media. Comprising this apparatus is a relatively rugged sensing structure characterized by structural simplicity and operational sensitivity.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART Equipment heretofore applied to sense punched record media utilized flexible brushes or wires seeking record openings to contact a conductive support plate, and switch and relay signalers impelled by rods or pivotal elements moved through record openings by impact contact or springpowered drives. Such directly driven sensing components require for each digital sensing position a sensor device comprising a plurality of interacting elemental parts. A datasensing mechanism in this class is the subject of U.S. Pat. No. 3,191,007, issued June 22, 1965 to H. P. Mixer, and examples of other such prior art sensors are shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 1,836,671, issued Dec. 15, 1931, to L. W. Langford,

particularly its FIGS. 5 to 8, and U.S. Pat. No. 2,521,408, is-

sued on Sept. 5, 1950, to E. J. Rabenda et al., particularly its FIGS. 13 to 15. Structural complexities of this prior art are avoided in the present invention by the application therein of an integral sensor device in each digital sensing position.

Punched tape data transfer arrangements in the past have been associated with complicated apparatus in the nature of electromechanical accounting machines employing tapes carrying data in decimal form which in each instance would be read out to key-setting devices. Where such machines facilitate concurrent entry of the same decimal digit in all denominational orders, digit-by-digit, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,127,504, issued Mar. 31, 1964, to W. C. Arnold, the requisite across-orders scanning for all decimal digits makes for relatively slow data transfer. Where all orders of the machine keyboard are set at one time, as in the Langford patent, previously noted, the sensing equipment comprises multitudinous contacts. In the present invention, where punched data stored by way of a binary-coded decimal scheme allows a relatively more convenient storage of sensed decimal data on tape, rapid entry of decimal values into an adding machine is facilitated by utilizing integrated electronic circuits in cooperation with the aforesaid integral sensor devices of the invention. Further, a regulatable cyclic operation in this invention is coordinated with the control of preset counters in these integrated circuits to obtain selectively ena bled data entry and totaling of the tape data.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Structural simplicity for the invention is secured by special provisions therein facilitating the operation of unique digital sensing devices. Each such device is an integral structure formed about a thin rod and combining parts for seeking a coded element in a record medium, actuating a data-manifesting switch, and directing the device to a restored position. These devices are enabled to achieve data transfer by relatively unimpeded displacements thereof with respect to the record medium and data-manifesting switches. More specifically, each device carries a magnet therewith when it is displaced which actuates a sealed, reedlike switch aligned opposite the magnet. The devices are cyclically releasable from a restored disposition thereof for record-sensing displacements by gravity. Magnets are thusly positioned to actuate corresponding switches in accordance with the elements of coded data sensed by the devices. Generally regular intermittent advancement of the record medium past a sensing station below the aforesaid device is directly coordinated with the disposition of the devices so as to present the latter to a new line of coded data in each operational cycle.

The data sensor switches are actuated simultaneously to manifest a representation of a binary-coded decimal value. An automatically stepped multiple switch arrangement operates to scan the switches whereby complete decimal digit values are serially transferred to a binary-decimal to decimal converter circuitry. Decimal digit signals thus produced are effective to energize driving solenoids affixed to a lO-key listeradder machine. The numerical item set up in the lister-adder is subsequently printed out in response to a print signal and a total of printed numbers is taken in response to a total signal following a scan in a cyclic operation. A print controlling automatically reset-preset predetermined counter is provided to count each cyclic turn of the apparatus and produce a signal commanding a print function after every predetermined number of cyclic turns. A total counter like that controlling item printing is provided to count each item printing, and produce a signal commanding a total taking operation after every predetermined number of printouts.

It is therefore an object of this invention to provide an improved simplified record sensing and data transfer arrangement.

A further object of this invention is to provide a freely operating, gravity impelled, magnetically acting tape sensed data transfer mechanism.

These and other objects of the invention will be clearly understood from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention considered together with the accompanying drawing wherein:

FIG. 1 is a generally pictorial perspective representation of the overall apparatus comprising the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective representation of a tape-sensing mechanism constituting structure contained in a tiltable housing appearing in the upper right-hand portion of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2A is a vertical sectional view taken on line 2A-2A in FIG. 2;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of components, including a powered drive for a punch tape and switch-controlling cams, mounted on the upper deck of the base chassis appearing in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary showing ofa punch tape having utility in the present invention, and wherein punched holes represent a numerical value taken as an example for the instant disclosure; arrangements structural FIG. 5 shows diagrammatically an assembly of circuit diagrams covering distinct portions of an overall circuit diagram for the present invention, and includes representations of electrical connectors between these portions which cooperatively relate them to each other and to arrangement of structure elements of FIG. 1 to 3; and

FIGS. 5A to SF, inclusive, each provides a representation of a different one of the distinct portions identified in FIG. 5.

A modular arrangement used in constructing the present invention appears as a consolidated structure in FIG. 1, and is further represented in FIG. 5 by a collocation of broken line enclosures delineating the appertaining circuitries. The larger contingents of this arrangement include a top deck assembly 8 and an electronic equipment chassis 10, to which assembly 8 is fastened for mechanical support and electrical cooperation. The integral unit thus formed is in turn connected by a cable 11 for operation with an automatic value setting and function control mechanism 12 adapted to render operable a conventional l0-key lister-adder machine 13. Assembly 8 is shown in to which are connected cams 18, and 22. These cams are secured to shaft 34 in positions to determine a sequential operation ofa bank of switches 36, 38 and 40.

Transport mechanism 26 is composed by working parts operatively disposed with respect to a pair of relatively low, 5 extended panels which appear in FIG. 3 as heavy gauge plates 42 and 43 attached at their lower edges to deck surface 14, and having irregular upper edges. These plates are maintained uniformly spaced apart and rigid with conventional fastenings including bridging straps 44 and 45. Cam shaft 34 is supported 1 by an extension thereofjournaled in openings through plates 42 and 43 so as to span a relatively uniform channel 47 established between the plates. Tape 28 is arranged to traverse the channel when drawn by the engagement within two columns of perforations therein of circumferential teeth on a drive sprocket drum 48. Tape issues from a supply reel 50 to engage on an idler sprocket 52, and extends from the drive sprocket to a takeup reel 54. Coiled spring and elastic belts 53 and 55, which are tension fitted on pulleys made integral with 0 reel 54 and gear 32, respectively, and interconnecting pulleys mounted on a spindle rotatable in plate 42, transmit an appropriate releasable drive from gearing structure 17 to the takeup reel. Other conventional intermediate spindles, alignment and tensioning structures are rotatably or pivotally supported by connections with one or both of the plates 42 and 43, to obtain a requisite tape feed between the supply and takeup reels.

The output shaft of motor 16 extends beyond gear thereon, and is journaled in further bearing openings through plates 42 and 43 so as to constitute a shaft 54 traversing channel 47 at a lower part thereof adjacent to sprocket 52. Shaft 54 also projects beyond plate 43 to establish on the outside of this plate a stub shaft to which are secured gear 56 and a ratchet cam 58 situated behind the gear and adjacent to the plate. A further stub shaft 59 affixed in an upper part of plate 43, provides an outside mount for a gear 60 which is positioned thereon to engage gear 56. A pawl device 62, mounted on a further short extension from plate 43, is reciprocatively driven by the action thereon of ratchet cam 58. A stepped drive is consequently applied to sprocket 48 by the intermittent action of pawl 62 upon a notched ratchet wheel 64 affixed to an ex tension of a shaft 68 to which the sprocket structure is fastened.

The tape 28 supplied for processing in the embodiment of the invention disclosed herein is a form of convention al punched paper tape which, as illustrated in FIG. 4, stores binary coded-decimal data in parallel rows 70 extending across the width of the tape. Each numerical digit in a four-digit decimal number is represented by a binary data equivalent stored in an appropriate one of four four-digit binary spacial arrangements. Repeating 24 number sequences extending along a median column mark time intervals at which data is received to assist visual processing or inspection of the tape. Spaced-apart intermediate columns 72 and 73, are, as previously indicated, fully punched to provide the holes engaging the sprocket teeth of the tape driver 48, and idler 52 when the tape is fed through channel 47. Manual alignment of teeth on sprocket 48 with respect to holes in tape columns 72 and 73 is facilitated by knobs 74 and 75 affixed to the extending ends of the sprocket support shafts.

Data readout from tape 28 is effectuated by a read-head mechanism which is shown in FIG. 1 as having affixed within a protective cover 82 a sensor assembly 84. With 65 reference particularly to FIG. 2, assemblage 84 is seen as comprising a rectangular frame 85 made up of bars 86 and 87 at top and bottom, and similar bars 88 and 98 at longer sides thereof. Bars 86 and 87 are alike in that 17 holes 90 and 91, respectively, extending therethrough, are correspondingly 70 located in the respective bars so as to constitute 17 pairs of axially aligned, vertically disposed holes. Frame 85 is thereby fashioned to accommodate for operation therein a set of 1? sensor elements 100, each of which comprises a slender round rod 101 adapted to slide freely in engagement with a separate 75 pair of the aligned holes. Surfaces defining holes 90, as well as holes 91, are effectively reduced by a countersink cut, or the like, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, to essentially a knife edge 94 so as to minimize areas therein with which rods 101 have frictional contact.

Positioning sensor elements also effect displacements of small rectangular bar magnets affixed to an upper part of each sensor rod 101. The opening in frame 85 opposite sensor elements 100, is largely covered by a panel board 111 on which glass encapsulated, magnetically operable switches 112 are mounted in a spacial relationship with respect to the respective sensor magnets 110. Each switch 112 is thereby located in alignment with the path followed by a magnet 110 upon the aforesaid displacement of its sensor element support. Accordingly, reedlike contacts in switch 112 are actuated as long as a greater part of the magnet is stationed opposite the switch contacts and revert to normal condition when the greater part of the magnet is maintained sufficiently above the switch contacts. An attachment at a lower part of each sensor rod 101, directly below magnet 110 on the rod, constitutes a horizontally extended cam follower arm 114 adapted to ride on the periphery of cam 24. In addition, each sensor element 100 is equipped with a seeker pin 116 fastened into the lower end of its rod 101. Downward displacements of the sensor elements by gravity as permitted by the falling away of cam 24 under follower arms 114, allow pins 116 to drop into the punched holes in row 70 of tape 28, as will be hereinafter more fully explained. Sensors 100 thus dropped disposed magnets 110 attached thereto to face switches 112 aligned therewith and effect actuation of the switches by magnet force.

Sensor assemblage 84 is further characterized by a racklike extension which constitutes a support bracket 117 depending from a lower part of frame 85. The bracket comprises a pair of flanges 118 and 120 which are held spaced apart and in parallel by connections to bars 88 and 89 of the frame, and a bracing rod 122 extending between the inner walls of the flanges. As may best be seen in FIG. 2, cam 24 is a roll-like component of sufficient length to extend beneath each of the sensors follower arms 114. This cam is supported in an operational position between flanges 118 and 120 by a shaft 124 which is maintained rotatable in suitable bearings affixed within the flanges. One end of shaft 124 projects through flange 120 to provide a shaft extension 126 on which is secured a gear 128, and a notched wheel 130 set contiguous to the gear on the flange side thereof. Extension 126 is capped with a knob 132 providing means to manually adjust cam 24 to a requisite setting. A spring-loaded dog 134 is pivotally mounted on flange 120 to engate the notch of wheel 130 so as to restrain shaft 124 and cam 24 thereon in an initial or starting disposition. With reference to FIG. 1, assemblage 84 can be seen fitted precisely into cover 82, the latter comprising an enlarged lower portion to accommodate bracket 117 of the assemblage including the gearing and other appurtenances thereof. Assemblage 84 is made secure by conventional latching devices including a receptor in cover 82 for a loop spring 136 attached to frame 85 of the assemblage. A pair of leaf springs 138, connected to a strap 140 depending from frame 85, are thus located to bear on tape 28 as a holddown means when read-head mechanism 80 is disposed over the tape.

Loading, or changing tapes in transport mechanism 26 is facilitated by the adjustability of read-head mechanism 80 to the tilted position thereof appearing in FIG. 1 where it is pivoted about a hinge comprising elements 142 and 144, affixed to assemblage 84 and tape transport 26, respectively, to uncover tape 28. Flange 120 comprises an earlike lug 146 at its lower forward part in which is secured a stud 148. This stud effectuates a latching of read-head mechanism 80 in the upright disposition thereof by snapping into a latching spring clip 150 which, as viewed in FIG. I, seen secured to a block 151 affixed to the outside of tape transport mechanism wall 43. Now evident from a viewing of FIG. 1, and a further consideration of FIGS. 2 and 3, is that gears 128 and 60 mesh upon the aforesaid latching of read-head mechanism 80, and complete a power train from shaft 54, through gears 56, 60 and 128, which enables transmission of a drive from motor 16 to cam 24.

Item printing and total taking operations in lister-adder machine 13 are controlled by separate presettable predetermining counters which are located in turretlike casings 160 and 162, respectively, situated on deck surface 14, rearwardly of the tape transport and read head mechanisms, as viewed in FIG. 1. As will hereinafter be more fully explained, the item printing control determines the line intervals on tape 28 after which readout for listing is taken, and total control determines the number of listing operations which are to occur before a total of such listing is taken. Turning to the wiring diagram of FIG. 5F, where the item print and total predetermining counters are indicated by numerals 116 and 168, and appear as part of circuitry in casings 160 and 162, respectively, multiple contact pin in socket connectors 170 and 172 are shown joining the respective circuitries with the larger arrangement of the present invention. A further such connector 173, which is situated within casing 162, provides connections between the total counter and a pulse delay circuit 174, operationally related thereto.

A modular construction such as facilitated by the aforesaid multiple contact connectors is duplicated for read-head mechanism 80, which comprises as part of assemblage 84 therein a connector 175 integrating the read-head circuits with those pertaining thereto outside the head. Reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B shows that similarly, a connector 176 interrelates all circuits comprising top deck assembly 8, including leads extending to motor 16, cam-operated switches 36, 38 and 40, and the aforesaid module connectors with the circuits housed in chassis 10. The modular concept is also applied in chassis where, as appears in FIGS. 5C, 5D, and SE, a connector 180 groups the terminals of circuits in a tape line scanning and operational sequencing control unit 182, and a connector 184 carries the requisite terminals of a binary coded-decimal to decimal converter 186. Chassis 10 additionally contains a power supply unit 188, a digit value key drive power unit 190 selectively supplying electrical power to actuator 12 for effectuating the operation of lister-adder 13, and a plurality of operational control relays to be hereinafter more fully described.

Electrical power for operation of the drive motor, adding machine and all associated system circuitry is drawn from power supply unit 188, shown in FIG. 5B, which receives a conventional AC input at its terminals 200. A stepdown transformer 202 and a diode rectification bridge 204 convert the AC input to unregulated rectified direct current which is supplied between positive lead 206 and negative lead 208. Series regulation is applied to this direct current in a circuit comprising a low-power high-gain NPN-transistor 210 which senses the output voltage level and in response thereto turns on or off a series connected PNP-power transistor 212 to maintain the voltage level constant. Load and supply voltages are sensed for comparison across capacitors 214 and 216 in a circuit comprising a Zener diode 218 in the current path between the transistors, and a connection from the base of transistor 210 to the arm of a potentiometer 222 connected across leads 224 and 226, extending from source positive and negative respectively. The highly capacitive circuit thus achieved permits high peak power and improved regulation with the result that short period overloads and brief short circuits can be tolerated without damage.

Tape scanning and operational control unit 182, shown in FIG. 5C, functions to sequentially relate the start, duration, and stop of each operational cycle, and to command the scan of the switch mode established by switches 112 in read-head mechanism 80. A relay 230 of unit 182 is operable to effect a stepping drive for a rotatable contactor in each of four generally similar decks whereby these rotor contacts sweep across 10 fixed contacts spaced around each deck whereon the circuits are completed which timely give rise to the aforesaid functions. However, operation of drive motor 16 precedes actuation of relay 230 in order that cam 20 be properly positioned by the motor drive to effect closure of switch 38 in a circuit initiating the operation of relay 230. Referring particularly to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, a rotor contact of relay 230 appears initially stationary on a home position contact of the relays first deck 232 where the rotor contact arm sets up a circuit to activate motor start relays 234 and 236. One of these relay circuits is traceable from source positive on leads 224, 238 by way of pin-socket 180-2, lead 402, ring, arm and home contacts of relay deck 232, lead 239, pinsocket 180-13, lead 240, through normally closed relay contact 234a, leads 242, 243, 244 a unijunction transistor 246 in a motor start delay circuit, to be hereinafter more fully explained, leads 247, 250 to the actuator coil of relay 236, lead 251 and actuator coil of relay 234, and leads 252, 237 to source negative lead 226. Also set up through the home position contact on deck 232 of relay 230 is a parallel circuit extending from lead 242 of the circuit previously traced, which continues through lead 254, a normally closed contact of a relay 256, leads 258, 259, a potentiometer 260, lead 262 a terminal 1 on a plug-type connector 264, a resistor 268, a lead 270, a capacitor 272, leads 274, 252,237, and to source negative by way of lead 226. As power is applied to the aforesaid circuits capacitor 272 is charged to a peak voltage in a time determined by the setting of potentiometer 260. The peak voltage of the capacitor charge is established on a lead 273 whereby it is sensed by the emitter of transistor 246, which is thereby fired. Consequently, capacitor 272 is caused to discharge in the circuit including the coil of relays 234 and 236, which is traceable through lead 270, resistor 268, lead 262, potentiometer 260, leads 259, 258 normally closed contacts of relay 256, leads 254, 243, 244, transistor 246, leads 247, 250, coil of relay 236, lead 251, coil of relay 234, and leads 252, 237, and 226 to source negative. Actuated relay 234 acts to lock itself and relay 236 in a circuit including lead 240 from source positive, and traceable through relay contacts 234b, leads 235, 248, 247, 250, the relay coils and to source negative as previously indicated for the initial circuit.

The activation of relay 236 in the circuit hereinbefore described, facilitates the completion of a power circuit for motor 16 upon the energization of a starting coil 274 of a latching relay 275, by closure of a start pushbutton 276. The energizing circuit for starting coil 274 is traceable from the relay coil to source positive back through closed start button 276, and leads 277, 278, 224, and from the coil to source negative on leads 279, 237, and 226. The completed power circuit for motor 16 achieved thereby is traceable from source positive on lead 224, through leads 278, 280, contacts 281 closed by activated coil 274, leads 561, 282, 283, contacts closed at a in-activated relay 236, lead 284, pin-socket 176-2, lead 286, through the motor and to source negative through lead 288, pin-socket 176-3, and leads 290, 237 and 226. When the ensuing motor operation moves cam 20 sufficiently to cause switch 38 to close at its contact b a circuit path shown in FIGS. 5A and SF, extended thereby permits the potential at the negative terminal of a charged capacitor 322 to be sensed at the base of a PNP-transistor 320. This path starting at capacitor 322 is traceable on leads 328, 392, a switch 390 normally closed at a contact a, lead 388, pin-socket 176-6, lead 386, through switch 38, lead 304, pin-socket -3, lead 306, a normally closed contact of a DPDT-switch 308, leads 310, 311, 313, resistance 314, lead 316, pin-socket 170-6, and lead 318. Thusly triggered, transistor 320 conducts in a circuitagainst a fixed contact 342 by a camming projection on the rotor of deck 232 which acts in this manner only when the deck is at an initial or home position, leads 344, 346, pinsocket 180-8, lead 348, pin-socket 176-9, lead 350 and the emitter of transistor 320.

Possible multiple scans by relay 230 prior to subsequent cycle closure of switch 38 by cam 30, due to residual discharge of capacitor 322, is prevented in a circuit facilitating a deep discharge of the capacitor through a resistor 364, This protective circuit is established as soon as relay 230 has moved the rotors thereof sufficiently to release switch arm contact 340, and a similar switch arm contact 368 of a relay deck 370, from the hold of rotor projections whereby contact arms 340 and 368 engage fixed contacts 372 and 374, respectively. Completion of the circuit from the positive to negative sides of capacitor 322 is accomplished by way of leads 329, 330, 278, 276, resistor 364, lead 376, pin-socket 180-12, lead 378, closed switch contacts 374, 368, leads 380, 344, closed switch contacts 340, 372, leads 382, 384, pin-socket 180-1, leads 362, 226, 237, 290, 301, pin-socket 176-5, lead 300, normally closed contact a of switch 38, lead 386, pin-socket 176-6, lead 388, a closed switch 390, and leads 392, 328. The subsequent rotation of cam permits switch 38 to release for engagement at its normally closed contact a which facilitates a recharging of capacitor 322 in a circuit traceable from source positive on leads 224, 330, 329, through the capacitor, and to source negative on leads 328, 392, normally closed switch 390, lead 388, pin-socket 176-6, lead 386, switch 38, lead 300, pin-socket 176-5, leads 301, 290, 237 and 226.

Following the charge induced energization of relay 230, which moves all rotor contacts off-home positions, the relay becomes self-stepping by operation of interrupter contacts 350 in cooperation with relay 332, Operation of relay 230 shifts a contact arm of the interrupter switch to engage a contact b thereof whereby a circuit to energize the coil of relay 332 is completed from source positive lead 224, through leads 352, 353, 354, resistor 355, lead 356, pin-socket 180-9, lead 358, the interrupter switch, leads 360, 384, pin-socket 180-1, lead 362, and to source negative on lead 226. The resulting operation of relay 332 causes normally closed contacts thereof to open in the circuit energizing relay 230. Consequently, the interrupter contact arm returns to normal whereby the energizing circuit for relay 332 is opened. It is evident that the energization and deenergization of relays 230 and 332, alternately, obtains the requisite stepping action which drives the rotor contactor arms to move across the spaced contacts of the four contact decks comprising control unit 182. A separate scanning operation, such as may be necessary for test or adjustment purposes, is achievable by actuation of switch 390 to engage its b contact in a circuit thereby made effective to cause transistor 320 to conduct with a resultant activation of stepping relay 230, as was hereinbefore explained. The appertaining initiating circuit from the negative potential side of capacitor 322 to the base of transistor 320 is traceable on lead 392, through switch 390 at contact b, lead 393, pin-socket 176-7, lead 395, pin-socket 170-10, leads 397, 313, resistance 314, lead 316, pin-socket 170-6 and lead 318.

Comprising the operational cycling of the present invention are a number of motor-driven preparatory functions leading to an electrical scanning operation, wherein a line of data sensed on tape 28 is transferred to lister-adder 13 for processing as directed by predetermining counter units 160 and 162, followed by a motor-driven resetting function. Accordingly, the motor drive is initially operable to ratchet ahead punched tape 28, a line at a time, when the drive is applied by way of gear train 17 to rotate cam 58 for reciprocating pawl 62 to step ratchet 64 of tape carrying sprocket 48. At the same time the drive, through gears 56, 60 and 128, turns cam 24 to where sensor elements 100 are freed to drop on to and enter into holes in a line 70 of tape 28 as positioned by the step advance. The drive is then also extended to shaft 34 to turn the three cams secured thereto. Thus, cam 20 is positioned to actuate switch 38 after the sensor rods are dropped, and cam 22 is positioned to actuate switch 40 to effect a registration of the cycle in counter 166. However, movement of cam 18 a few degrees from the initial position thereofshown in FlG. 5A, displaces the cam lobe sufficiently to release the contact arm of switch 36 for return to normal at b. A circuit affected thereby functions in connection with providing a limited extension of motor operation for restoring to normal sensors located in down position when a motor operation stop button 900 is depressed, or in response to a test for the presence of a feed hole in line 70 the absence thereof would result in no further motor action at the end of the current cycle, as will hereinafter be explained.

Sensor assemblage 84 is generally represented in FIG. 5A by the array of magnetically operated switches 112 therein. It will be noted that 17 of these switches are shown in four groups of four normally open switches, respectively having connections to steering diodes 113, corresponding to the binary denomination bases for the tens, units, tenths and hundredths decimal denominations as represented on tape 28, and a singular normally closed switch 112 which is opened in response to feed hole detection by an endmost sensor rod 100. However, as indicated above, the lack ofa feed hole at the end of the record on a tape 28 blocks the endmost sensor rod from dropping sufficiently to actuate the normally closed switch 112. Consequently, an energizing circuit is completed to a release coil 400 of motor circuit latching relay 275 when the rotor contact of relay 230 deck 232 reaches the ninth position contact. This motor stop circuit is traceable from source positive on leads 224, 238, pin-socket 180-2, lead 402, through the deck ring and rotor contacts to position nine, lead 404, pin-socket 180-14, lead 406, pin-socket 176-17, lead 408, pin-socket -7, lead 410, normally closed switch 112, lead 412, pin socket 175-8, lead 414, pin-socket 176-16, leads 416, 418, and across stop coil 400 to source negative on leads 279, 237, 226. Thus energized, coil 400 moves a switch arm of normally closed contacts 420 thereof to effect an open circuit at these contacts, and actuates a mechanical interconnection between the aforesaid stop switch arm and that of the start coil contacts 281 which effects the separation of contacts 281. Consequently, the motor energizing circuit extending through relay contacts 236a and which was completed through contacts 281, is interrupted when a feed hole is not sensed in a tape line. cam

Completion ofa scanning operation wherein a feed hole was not sensed, finds that although relays 234 and 236 are again energized when the rotor contact of deck 232 is returned to home position, an automatic completion of a motor energization circuit through start coil contacts 281 is precluded, as was heretofore explained. Nevertheless, as indicated above, at this point in the operation, cam 18 is still out of initial position and allows closure of switch 36 at contact b so as to effect completion of a motor energizing circuit. This circuit is traceable from source positive on leads 224, 330, pin-socket 176-1, leads 422, switch 36 closed at contact b, lead 424, pin-socket 176-4, leads 426, 282, 283, contacts closed at a in energized relay 236, lead 284, pin-socket 176-2, lead 286 through motor 16, and to source negative by way of leads 288, pinsocket 176-3, and leads 290, 237 and 226. Consequently, motor operation continues until cam 24 returns sensor elements 100 to an initial lifted position in assemblage 84, and other mechanical parts are returned to starting position. Thus, cam 18 is again disposed in its initial position which actuates switch 36 to contact a thereof, with the result that motor operation stops since the energizing circuit through contact b of switch 36 is then open. Reclosure of contacts 420 of relay coil 400, upon deenergization of this coil, applies negative source to both sides of rotor 16, which acts to produce motor breaking at the end of the readout operation. The breaking circuit is traceable from source negative on leads 226, 237, pin-socket 176-3, lead 288, through motor 16, lead 286, pinsocket 176-2, lead 284, relay 236 at switch contact a, leads 283, 282, 426, pin-socket 176-4, lead 424 and to cam switch contact 36a, lead 430, pin-socket 176-14, lead 246, closed contacts 420 of relay 275, leads 432, 279, 237 and to source negative on lead 226.

Consideration is now given to an exemplary scanning and recording of tape data according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 4, tape 28 is shown comprising a line 500 storing a decimal value of 20.03 by means of holes punched in the binary 2 position of the decimal tens order and the binary 2 and 1 positions in the decimal hundredths order, and having in addition a feed hole punched in the 17th or leftmost column of the line. Closure of a main power switch 502, indicated by energization of pilot light 503, followed by depression of start key 276, initiates, after a predetermined time delay, the motor operation which functions to drive tape transport mechanism 26. Tape 28 is thus advanced stepwise to bring line 500 directly under sensors 100 held raised in sensor head 80 by sensor follower arms 114 resting on cam 24. Concurrently with the tape advance cams 18, 20, 22 and 24 are rotatably driven together by the motor connection thereto whereby cam 24 is in time disposed so as to permit the descent of sensors 100 toward tape 28 upon completion of a step advance of the tape. At this point in the cycle cam 20 has rotated to where it effects closure of switch 38 at contact I) with the result that stepper relay 230 is energized by the discharge of capacitor 322. Accordingly, the rotors of the relay decks are moved offhome position contact whereby the energizing circuit for motor 16 is opened at the home position contact of deck 232, and motor operation ceases. However, the intermittent drive of relay 230 continues by means of the self-controlled stepping circuit comprising interrupter contacts 350 and relay 332. Thereafter, the holes in tape line 500 are penetrated by seeker pins 116 of the first, second, l4th and 17th sensors 100, as viewed from the left in FIG. 2. The aforesaid sensors drop a distance allowed by cam 24 whereas the remaining sensors are held from any appreciable movement by the tape surface. The lowered sensors carry magnets 110 attached to them sufficiently downward to obtain actuation of switches 112 facing such magnets. The switches 112 corresponding to the hundredths, tens and feed hole positions thus actuated are identifiable in FIG. A by reference to numerals 510 to 515, inclusive, and 410 and 412, indicating four lead pairs separately connected to the contacts of a respective one of the switches.

Read out of the data on line 500 commences when relay 230 is advanced by its self stepping control to move leading rotor contacts 516 and 517 of its first and fourth decks, and the corresponding rotor contacts 518 and 519 of its second and third decks 520 and 521, respectively, into engagement with the number I contact positions of the respective decks. Circuit completion at the number 1 contact on deck 232 latches relay 256 in the event a total print out caused this relay to unlatch during the previous scan. The latching circuit is traceable from source positive on lead 224 by way oflead 238, pin-socket 180-2, lead 402, the rotor contact on deck 232 with contact 516 at position 1, leads 522, 523, pin-socket 180-10, lead 524, the latch coil 526 of relay 256 and leads 525, 237 and 226 to source negative. Thus energized, relay 256 maintains its contacts closed to complete the circuit through leads 254 and 258 which short across resistance 524. The resulting circuit is therefore traceable directly from lead 258 to lead 259 and potentiometer 260 which now effectively determines the motor start delay.

Stepping relay 230 functions through its decks 520 and 521 which have their correspondingly numbered contacts linked through parallel connections, to sequentially scan the switch settings of the four binary-coded decimal groupings of switches 112. Leads 530, 532, 534, and 536, extend successively through pin-sockets of connectors 180, 176 and 175, and establish a circuit from relay 230 rotor contacts 518 and 519 holding position 1 on their decks, to the leads in parallel reaching contacts of four switches 112 constituting the tens order. In this manner the rotor contacts test the tens order to determine which of the parallel circuits thereof are completed through switches 112 closed by magnets 110. In the present example where closure of the tens order binary 2 switch 112 was effected, a completed circuit through leads 514 and 515 extends further to the base of a PNP-power transistor 540, shown in FIG. 5D, which constitutes one of four such transistors of a relay driver group 541, each of which is separately connected through respective circuitries to the individual switches corresponding to the same one of the binary digits in the four decimal orders of switches of sensor assemblage 84. The completed circuit is traceable through leads 542, 544, pin-socket -3, leads 546, pin-socket 176-19, and lead 547 containing a bias resistor 548 for transistor 540. The circuit thus traced through the closed switch 112 carries a negative potential applied thereto by way of leads 226, 362, pin-socket 180-1, lead 384 and the fixed rotor contacts 550 and 552, and the circuitry previously traced to the base of transistor 540. As a result, transistor 540 conducts in a circuit, shown in FIGS. 53, 5D, and 5E, applying source positive to energize a multicontact relay 560 in binary coded to decimal converter 186. The relay energizing circuit is traceable from source positive on lead 224, closed contacts 281 of latched start relay 274, leads 561, 562, 564, the emitter-collector of transistor 540, lead 566, pin-socket 184-3, lead 568, through the relay and to source negative on lead 570, pin-socket 184-5, leads 279, 237 and 226. Relay 560 operates to switch the bank of contacts it controls in converter 186, whereby only a contact 572 is made effective to complete a circuit, shown in FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5D, for biasing one PNP- transistors 580 among 10 numerical control transistors in driver unit for keys of lister-adder machine 13. This biasing circuit is traceable from source negative on lead 226, pinsocket 180-11, lead 581, through rotor contacts of deck 370, lead 582 joining positions 1 to 7 contacts of deck 370, lead 583, pin-socket 180-16, lead 584, pin-socket 184-6, lead 585, through normally closed contacts and actuated contact 572 in lead 586 of converter 186, pin-socket 184-9, lead 587, to the base of transistor 580. Conduction through transistor 580 occurs in an energizing circuit for a solenoid in machine key-actuating mechanism 12 which causes depression of the 2" key of the lO-key keyboard of the lister-adder 13. This solenoid energizing circuit is traceable from source positive on leads 224, 280, contacts 281, leads 561, 562, 589, 590, 592, 593, the emitter-collector of transistor 580, lead 595, to a pinsocket 2 of a connector 598, which by way of cable 11 joins circuits comprised by units 8 and 10, to the solenoid key-actuator machine units 12 and 13. Completion of the energizing circuit is accomplished in a circuit through pin-socket S98-C, and leads 600, 279, 237 and 226.

Relay 230 continues its stepping drive turning the rotors of the relay decks whereby rotor contacts 516 and 519 are advanced counterclockwise, as these parts appear in FIG. SC, to engage their contacts in positions 3. Accordingly, circuitry extending through the position 3 contact of decks 520 and 521 and terminating in a lead 610 joining the units order binary representing switch leads in parallel, is prepared to activate digitizing circuits where there appears actuated switches 112 in the units group of sensor head unit 84. However, since actuated switches 112 are not present in the units group, none of the transistors in relay driver group 541 conduct, and all relays in converter 186 remain at rest. Nevertheless, a biasing circuit from source negative is completed to a solenoid driver PNP- transistor 612 through a set of normally closed relay contacts in converter 186. The implementing contacts connect lead 585 from source negative to a lead 614 which extends through pin-socket 184-7 to the base of the transistor 612. Conduction in the transistor energizes the 0" key solenoid in key actuator 12, in a circuit including lead 592 from source positive,

70 lead 616, pin-sockets 598-0 and C, and lead 600 to source negative. Rotor contacts 516 and 519 are again advanced by stepper relay 230, and on reaching deck contact positions 5, rotor contacts 518 and 519 establish circuitry to sense the switch mode ofthe tenths order in assemblage 84. Since tenths order switches 112 have not been actuated a 0" key solenoid is again energized to effect the insertion of a second zero in the pinncarriage of lister-adder 13.

On reaching deck positions 7 on the stepping relay decks, rotors 518 and 519 complete circuits through the actuated binary 2 and binary l switches 112 of the hundredths order of sensor assemblage 84, with the result that source negative is applied to again bias transistor 540 as well as PNP-transistor 620 of the relay driver transistor group 541. The biasing circuits are traceable from source negative on lead 384, and by way of the path through contacts on decks 520 and 521, lead 622, pin-socket 180-6, lead 624, pin-socket 176-10, lead 626, pin-socket 175-14, lead 628, and to the base of transistor 540 on sensor switch leads 512, 513, leads 542, 544, pin-socket 175-3, lead 546, pin-socket 176-19, and lead 547 and resistance 548 therein, and similarly to the base of transistor 620 on sensor switch leads 510, 511, leads 630, 632, pin-socket 175-4, lead 634, pin-socket 176-18, lead 636 and resistance 638 therein. Thus, the previously described energizing circuit for converter relay 560 is again established, together with an energizing circuit for a further converter relay 640, traceable from source positive to latch relay contacts 281, and on leads 562, 589, 642, through the emitter-collector of conducting transistor 620, lead 644, pin-socket 184-4, and lead 646, and to source negative by way oflead 570 and connections to lead 226 previously described. Relay contacts thus actuated in converter 186 set up a biasing circuit for solenoid driver PNP- transistor 650. Through the connections from lead 226 previ ously described, lead 585 in the converter carries source negative to a circuit traceable through displaced contact 652 of relay 640, lead 654, normally closed contacts 656, lead 658, normally closed contacts 660, lead 662, through displaced contact 664 of relay 560, lead 666, pin-socket 184-10, lead 668, reaching the base of transistor 650. Conduction through transistor 650 effectuates an energizing circuit for a solenoid in unit 12 which depresses the 3 key in the lister-adder machine 13. The energizing circuit is completed from source positive to lead 592, by connections from lead 224, as previously explained, and by way of leads 670, 593, 672, 674, the emitter-collector of transistor 650, lead 676, and pin-socket 598-3, and from the solenoid to source negative by way of pin-socket 598-C and lead 600. With the entrance of the hundredths digit setting up the value of 20.03 in the pin carriage of the -key machine 13, the coded data in tape line 500 has been fully transfered.

With its next stepping action relay 230 drives its rotors to engage rotor contacts at positions 8 on the several decks thereof whereby a circuit through contact 517 of deck 370 initiates a print command signal for the recording phase of the operation. The initiate circuit biases a PNP-power transistor 680 by applying an activating potential to its base through connections from source negative including lead 226, pinsocket 180-11, lead 581, contacts closed at position 8 of deck 370, lead 684, pin-socket 180-15, and lead 686. Thus, transistor 680 conducts and activates an energizing circuit for a solenoid in unit 12 which depresses the print bar in listeradder 13. The energizing circuit is traceable from source positive on leads 224, 278, 280, closed contacts 281, leads 561, 562, 589, 590 690, the emitter-collector of transistor 680, lead 692, through pin-socket 598-1, with return to source negative through pin-socket 598-C, as was previously explained. The further stepping drive by relay 230 brings rotor contacts 516 to 519 to home positions and as heretofore explained a motor energizing circuit is prepared for activation after a predetermined delay. This delay is accomplished in the circuit 50 described comprising capacitor 272 and potentiometer 260. A knob 700, on a control panel 699 of chassis 10 of the preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 1, facilitates adjustment of potentiometer 260 to set the delay from 0 to 6 seconds, and accordingly set the frequency of the operational starts, or the cyclic repetition rate.

Counter 166 comprises a presettable mechanism adapted to determine the frequency at which item printing occurs. A count is registered at each scanning cycle when switch 40 is actuated by cam 22. A PNP-power transistor 710 is conductively biased from source negative on lead 290 to pin-socket 176-3, in a circuit further comprising leads 713, 714, pinsocket -1, leads 715, 716, actuated counter switch 308, closed at contact b, leads 720, 722, pin-socket 170-4, lead 724, closed contact b of cam switch 40, lead 726, pin-socket 170-9, lead 728, resistance 730, pin-socket 170-7, and lead 732 to the base of transistor 710. An energizing circuit for a print counter coil 733, is completed through the emitter-collector of transistor 710, by way of lead 330, pin-socket -1, and lead 736 from source positive, lead 738, pin-socket 170-12, leads 740, 741, and from the coil on lead 715, pinsocket 170-1, and leads 714, 713 to source negative. Counter coil 733 functions to close counter contacts 746 in the biasing circuit for transistor 320. As previously disclosed, the activation of transistor 320 is a prerequisite to the discharge of capacitor 322 which supplies the current necessary to first energize relay 230 such that its rotor contacts move from home contact positions into engagement with contacts at the positions determining scanning functions. Moreover, as previously indicated, cyclic operation according to the invention requires energization of motor 16 prior to activation of relay 230. Thus, the enabling of repeated cyclic operations in which the motor drive is applied to the sequencing cams and transport mechanism 26 will occur even though scanning functions are not ordered when counter switch 308 is actuated and open at contact a. Therefore, the presetting of counter 166 to allow closure of contacts 746 after registration of preselected counts, provides a control which can obtain the scanning function for each line of coded data on tape 28, or only for lines spaced some predetermined number of lines apart. Counter 166 is a presetting, automatically resetting predetermining counter of the type known to the art, and a disclosure of a typical counter of the type that is applicable in the present invention is given in US. Pat. No. 3,125,29l issued Mar. 17, l964, to F. A. Komatar.

Counter 168, being identical to counter 166, also comprises a presettable mechanism which in this instance is adapted to determine the frequency at which totals are printed of the items accumulated since the last total taking printout by the lister-adder 13. In effect, total counter 168 registers a number of scanning functions up to the number preset therein, and thereupon resets and initiates a command signal which gives rise to the total printout. The end of each scan is sensed on decks 520 and 521 when rotor contacts 518 and 519 reach positions 5 of the decks. A PNP-transistor 750 is biased to conduct by a circuit which includes connections through rotor contacts 518 and 519 on positions 5 of their decks, which join the transistor base to source negative by way of leads 226, 326, pin-socket 180-1, lead 384, and deck contacts 550 and 552, lead 752, pin-socket 180-5, lead 754, pin-socket 176-11, leads 756, 758, pin-socket 172-9, resistor 760, pin-socket 172-7, and lead 762. The resultant conduction in transistor 750 completes an energization circuit for actuator coil 764 of total counter 168. The coil circuit is traceable from source positive on leads 736, 766, 768, the emitter-collector of transistor 750, lead 770, actuated switch 772, lead 774, and from coil 764 to source negative on lead 776, pin-socket 172-1, and to pin-socket 180-3 via lead 713.

Closure of total-controlled contacts 778, in response to a predetermined number of coil energizations in this counter, gives rise, after a predetermined time delay, to conduction in a PNP-transistor 780 provided to trigger conduction in the total key driver circuitry. The need for a total pulse delay, between initial command to total and the final actuation of the total key solenoid arises because the command to total is given before the lister-adder motor bar has come to rest in the print cycle. Thus a total command signal is adapted to set a time delay pulse circuit and does not directly actuate the total solenoid. Closure of total counter contacts 778 therefore establishes a connection from source positive on lead 736 to the base of an PNPtransistor 790 by way of leads 766, 792, actuated switch 772, the counter contacts, lead 794, pin-socket 172-5, re-

sistance 796, and lead 798. The delay is set by charging a capacitor 800 in a circuit energized by conduction of transistor 790 in a circuit from source positive on leads 736, 766, 802, pin-socket 172-11, leads 804, 806, collectoremitter of transistor 790, lead 808 pin-socket 173-3, lead 810, diode 812, lead 814, capacitor 800, leads 815, 816, pin-socket 173-1, lead 713 to source negative. This action establishes a voltage across an RC-timing network comprising resistances 817,818, and a capacitor 819 serially connected by leads 821, 822. Resistance 818 is adjustable in the timing circuit to set a requisite delay time. A unijunction transistor 825 is connected for control by the network through circuitry between leads 832 and 816, comprising resistor 833 and lead 834. In turn an SCR-transistor 830 is connected for control by transistor 825 through the circuitry of leads 836, 838. When capacitor 819 reaches a predetermined voltage, transistor 825 starts to conduct whereby capacitor 819 discharges across resistor 833 which biases transistor 830 to an on condition. Conduction by transistor 830 through leads 835 and 836 is sensed at the base of total signal command transistor 780 which responds by also turning on. A total key solenoid PNP-power transistor 831 is subsequently turned on by the biasing circuit established thereon through lead 816 from source negative, and transistor 780, lead 832, pin-socket 173-2, lead 837, pin-socket 172-10, lead 839, pin-socket 176-22, and lead 854 to the base of transistor 831. Conduction through transistor 831 brings source positive to the total key solenoid by way ofa circuit including leads 224, 278, 277, 856, the emitter-collector of transistor 831, lead 858, and pin-socket 598-T with return to source negative through pin-socket 598-C and on lead 600.

In connection with developing the total pulse delay, restart of motor operation for beginning a new cycle is inhibited. Conduction in transistor 790 also provides current to energize a release coil 257 oflatched relay 256. This circuit is traceable from source positive on lead 806, through collector-emitter of transistor 790, leads 808, 840, pin-socket 172-4, lead 842, pin-socket 176-23, lead 844, through coil 257, and to source negative on leads 846, 237, 226. The resultant open circuit at the contacts of relay 256 has the effect of rerouting a path in the motor energization facilitating circuit, previously described, starting from lead 242 and extending on leads 254, 258, to lead 259, to a path starting from lead 242 and extending on leads 243, 852, resistance 524, lead 850 to lead 259. Resistance 524 is thereby inserted in series with the resistance of potentiometer 260 of the circuitry determining the charging time of capacitor 272, whereby the delay defining the repetition rate is extended. Thus, an additional delay is allowed for a total printout before activation of the drive motor to initiate the next cycle. Relay 256 is again latched to close its contacts in the circuit shunting resistance 524 when, as indicated above, the relay latch coil is energized through position 1 on deck 232 of relay 230 on the start of the next scan.

Referring again to FIG. 1, chassis panel 699 is seen as having mounted therein manual controls including the previously described start switch 276, power input switch 502, and repetition rate potentiometer adjustment knob 700, as well as a stop pushbutton 900. Depression of the stop button applies power in a circuit including leads 278, 277, 856, 902, 418, coil 400 of latching relay 275, and leads 279, and 226. Coil 400 responds by shifting motor energizing switch 281 to an open state whereby operation ceases at the cycle end. in the vent relay 230 of stepper 182 stalls in midcycle due to a malfunction, such as a momentary failure of power supply regulating circuitry output, or abnormal partial discharge of capacitor 322, the stepper can be restored to initial position by momentarily closing a reset button 903, also located in panel 699. A circuit completed by the resulting switch closure bypasses the regulating circuitry of the power supply and provides a sufficiently large power surge to allow restart and continued stepping of relay 230. This power surge occurs through connections to source positive on leads 206, 905, 224, 330, 334, pin-socket 180-7, and lead 336 to the coil of relay 230, and to negative on lead 338, contact 372, and leads 344, 362.

Print counter casing which carries count start-stop switch 308, previously explained, is further equipped with a pushbutton 904 which is independently operable to advance the count of counter 166. Button 904 is used when it is desirable at times to reduce the preset print count manually. The related circuit is traceable from negative on leads 713, 714, socket-pin -1, leads 715. 716, closed switch 308, leads 720, 722, through the switch closed by button 904, resistance 703, pin-socket 170-7, and lead 732 applying a bias switching on transistor 710, which in turn allows emitter-collector current flow through lead 738, pin-socket 170-12, leads 740, 741, coil 733 of preset counter 166, and to negative on leads 715, 714 and 713. For the reduction of the preset total count when desirable, there is located in total counter casing 162, along with total-print on-off switch 772, a manually operated count advance pushbutton 906. Switch closure by button 906 allows a base drive current from negative on leads 713, 907, 909, pin-socket 172-9, through resistance 760, pin-socket 172-7, and lead 762 to reach transistor 750 which switches on to allow emitter-collector current flow from source positive through lead 770, closed switch 772, and lead 774 to coil 764 of the total counter, and to negative on leads 776 and 713.

Although the drive to the total print key in adder-lister 13 is normally activated by closing switch 778 in total counter 168, it is often desirable to clear previous numbers from machine 13, or to insert a manual total. For this purpose a pushbutton 908 is provided which allows a base drive current switching on transistor 831, and thereby gives rise to an emitter-collector current flow from positive through lead 858 to the total solenoid in control mechanism 12, in a manner previously explained. The circuit completed by depressing button 908 is traceable from negative on lead 713, through the switch closed by the button, pin-socket 172-6, leads 912, 837, pinsocket 172-10, lead 839, pin-socket 176-22, and lead 854 to the base of transistor 831.

The operation of an apparatus according to the present invention is summarized in the following table wherein the typical operational cycle thereof is for convenience considered as taking place in a sequence of intervals 1 to IV. The first part of the next cycle is also set forth to illustrate intercycle effects.

External power is applied to the apparatus upon closure of power-on switch 502, and operational start pushbutton 276 is depressed to prepare an energizing circuit for drive motor 16. After a predetermined delay based on the repetition rate setting of potentiometer 260, the energizing circuit to the motor is completed and a motor drive starts.

Motor drive activates tape transport mechanism 26, and tape 28 moves ahead one line 70 to beneath the pins 116 of sensors 100. At the same time cams 18, 20 22 and 24 are rotated by the drive whereby cam 24 releases sensors 100 so that the pins 116 thereof enter holes in tape line 70. As a result, a decimal numerical value coded in binary digits by the holes is transferred to corresponding switches 112 by selectively effectuating switch closures with magnetic forces applied to the switch contacts from magnets on the sensors finding holes in the tape line.

lll

Cams 20 and 22 move together to shift contact arms of switches 38 and 40, respectively, whereby switch 40 completes a circuit to cause registration of a cycle count on print counter 166 in which its preset controlled contacts 746 are then closed; and switch 38 makes available a circuit path for the discharge of capacitor 322 in a circuit energizing stepper relay 230 to move the rotor contacts thereof off-home positions. Concurrently with such movement camming projections on relay rotors permit the opening of switches formerly closed in the motor-energizing circuit with the result that motor operation is interrupted for the duration of the subsequent scan of the mode of switches 112, and print and total taking operationsto follow. Stepper relay 230 is thereafter self-controlled to step ahead to positions 1 through 7, with the result that circuits completed at positions 1, 3, 5 and 7 on decks 520 and 521 of the relay function to scan switches 112 and obtain serial transfer of the decimal values set up thereon in termsof binary digits. A binary-decimal to decimal converter 186 receives the binary-coded decimal values, by way of transistorized drivers (541) acting to control relays in the converter, and passes decimal output through further transistorized drivers (190) which energize solenoid actuators setting up the decimal values in adder-lister 13.

When following the scanning function stepper relay rotors reach deck position 8, a print command is recognized through contacts of relay deck 370 whereat print counter 166 signals a print operation. In the event a total taking operation is also signaled due to closure of switch 778 at total counter 168, a delay arising in a circuit characterized by resistances 817, 818, and capacitor 819, becomes effective to permit completion of a print operation in lister-adder 13 before a total taking operation starts. Further, where total taking is in order the motor start delay is extended by the insertion of a resistance 524 in series with the potentiometer 260 resistance of the repetition rate control so as to permit completion of the total taking operation in adder-lister 13 before start of the next cycle. Upon the stepper relay rotors reaching deck positions 9, a test for a feed hole in the tape line is made through contacts of deck 232. The absence of a feed hole, indicating the end of coded material on the tape, blocks the drop of the corresponding feed hole sensor 100, which if free would have actuated normally closed feed hole switch 112 to open condition. When left undisturbed closed switch 112 completes a circuit through position 9 on stepper relay deck 232 which energizes the latch relay release coil 400 such that motor start switch 281 of the latch relay is opened to disable the motor-energizing circuit.

Upon the stepper relay rotors again reaching home positions of their decks, a new cycle would start with motor energization after a requisite delay where a feed hole was sensed during the preceding cycle. If instead no feed hole was sensed, the resulting disabling of the motor-energization circuit, previously indicated, is overridden by a shunt circuit, completed by reason of cam 18 acting to release the contact arm of switch 36, which energizes the motor for operation. The motor drive thus provided effects the restoration of sensors 100 to a raised position before the apparatus is finally stopped when cam 18 again acts to dispose the contact arm of switch 36 to where it opens the shunt circuit.

While a preferred form of the physical embodiment of the invention has been illustrated and described herein, it will be understood that the invention is not limited thereby, but is susceptible to change in form and detail.

What is claimed is:

1. An automatic record data-handling apparatus comprising means to intermittently displace a record element having lines of data set therein constituted by arrangements of uniform physical alterations of said record element, means stationed above the path of said displacement for sensing data in a line between intermittent displacements of said record element, said sensing means comprising a multiplicity of integrally formed, elongated sensor elements and an open face support carrier therefore having minimal surfaces linearly guiding said sensor elements for predetermined minimum and maximum downward translational displacements by gravity and restoration translational upward by a cyclically movable surface contacting said sensor elements, a multiplicity of magnetically operated data manifesting electrical means affixed opposite said sensor elements in one to one correspondence therewith,

individual magnetic means affixed to each sensor element at a location thereon where said magnetic means is disposed with respect to a data-manifesting means so as to operate upon it only when said sensor element arrives at or about said maximum downward displacement, said data sensing being effectuated when said sensor elements are permitted by said movable surface to drop by gravity upon a data line of said record element wherein individual sensor elements arrive at said maximum or minimum displacements in accordance with whether or not a sensor element is aligned over one of said physical alternations in said record element, periodically operated displaceable means scanning the operated status of said data manifesting electrical means prior to restoration of said sensor elements, and further means responsive to the operation of said scanning means and operable in accordance therewith and said status of said data-manifesting electrical means to transfer said data sensed on a line of said record element to a further record element.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an electric motor, a source of power, and circuit means responsive following a preset period of delay after each operation of said scanning means to a predetermined disposition thereof to apply said power source for energizing said electric motor, and adjustable means in said circuit means operable to set said period of delay.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an electric motor, a source of power, and circuit means responsive upon each operation of said scanning means to a predetermined disposition thereof to apply said power source for energizing said electric motor, a mechanical connection including a gear train activated by a coupling thereof with said motor, and wherein said intermittent displacement means comprises a ratchet actuator driven by a connection thereof to said gear train and constituting a drive to a rotatable element engaging said record element.

4. The apparatus of claim 3 additionally comprising a further gear train operatively associated with said surface contacting said sensor elements, and tiltable means carrying said means supporting said sensor elements and said further gear train, said tiltable means being operable to engage said further gear means with said coupled gear train whereby said motor is made effective to cyclically move said surface contacting said sensor element.

5. The apparatus of claim 3 further comprising first and second preset-reset predetermining counters, a second cyclically movable surface, and a switch adapted to be cyclically closed and opened by said second surface, said gear train being operable each cycle to move said second surface whereby said switch is closed to complete a circuit applying said power source to operate said first counter to register therein a count for each operational cycle, said further means comprising a lister-adder machine including a plurality ofdigit keys and print and total keys, an arrangement of solenoid driven key actuators including one solenoid actuator for operating each of said keys, said scanning means comprising an automatically operable relay actuated stepper switch including rotatable contacts moved step by step to engage and sweep over a plurality of stationary contacts, said datamanifesting electrical means comprising an array of magnetically operable switches, each individually aligned with one of said magnetic means, a plurality of additional circuits completed by means of engaged contacts of said stepper switch and operated switchs of said array of switches acting to sequentially apply said power source to said solenoid actuators whereby digit keys are operated to insert a numerical value in said machine, further circuits completed by means of a switch actuated by operation of said first counter and further engaged contacts of said stepper switch acting to apply said power source to another one of said solenoid actuators whereby said print key is operated to print out said inserted numerical value, still further circuits completed by means of conduction through a transistor activated in response to completion of said further circuits to apply said power source to operate said second counter to register therein a count for each printout operation in said machine, and yet still further circuits completed by means of a switch actuated by operation of said second counter adapted to apply said power source to a still another one of said solenoid actuators whereby said total key is operated to print out on said further record element a total of said numerical values printed out, said yet still further circuits comprising a delay circuit operating to hold up application of said power source to energize said still another of said solenoid actuators for a period of time required to complete a printout ofa numerical value in said machine.

6. In a record sensing apparatus, a sensor arrangement comprising a frame, a plurality of orifices providing by openings therein reduced passages in upper and lower segments of said frame, said openings in said segments being disposed one above the other in pairs so as to facilitate with respect to each of said pairs the extension of a straight line path between and through said passages thereof, a plurality of rods, each of said pair of openings guiding within the passages thereof one of said rods which is thereby disposed to project above said upper segment and below said lower segment, each said rod having as integral parts thereof a pin extending straight down from the lower projection thereof, a generally horizontal angular extension affixed at a predetermined point on a lower part of each rod between said openings, a magnetic element affixed vertically on an upper part of each rod between said openings, and in vertical alignment with said angular extension, a major part of an area defined within said frame being covered by a panel accommodating for attachment thereto electrical components including a plurality of magnetically operated switch means, each said switch means being aligned with the path which a magnetic element contiguous to said switch takes when said rod is guided by said holes, a bracket made integral with a lower part of said frame, said bracket supporting for rotation therein a camming means operable in association with said angular extensions to effect a vertical lift and subsequent drop of said rods and the integral parts thereof.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said arrangement further comprises gear means, a rotatable shaft traversing said bracket and extending outside thereof so as to provide a stub shaft to which said gear means is secured, said traversing shaft providing a mount in said bracket for said camming means, a motor, and further gear means engageable with said gear means to transmit a drive from said motor to said traversing shaft. 

1. An automatic record data-handling apparatus comprising means to intermittently displace a record element having lines of data set therein constituted by arrangements of uniform physical alterations of said record element, means stationed above the path of said displacement for sensing data in a line between intermittent displacements of said record element, said sensing means comprising a multiplicity of integrally formed, elongated sensor elements and an open face support carrier therefore having minimal surfaces linearly guiding said sensor elements for predetermined minimum and maximum downward translational displacements by gravity and restoration translational upward by a cyclically movable surface contacting said sensor elements, a multiplicity of magnetically operated data manifesting electrical means affixed opposite said sensor elements in one to one correspondence therewith, individual magnetic means affixed to each sensor element at a location thereon where said magnetic means is disposed with respect to a data-manifesting means so as to operate upon it only when said sensor element arrives at or about said maximum downward displacement, said data sensing being effectuated when said sensor elements are permitted by said movable surface to drop by gravity upon a data line of said record element wherein individual sensor elements arrive at said maximum or minimum displacements in accordance with whether or not a sensor element is aligned over one of said physical alterations in said record element, periodically operated displaceable means scanning the operated status of said data manifesting electrical means prior to restoration of said sensor elements, and further means responsive to the operation of said scanning means and operable in accordance therewith and said status of said data-manifesting electrical means to transfer said data sensed on a line of said record element to a further record element.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an electric motor, a source of power, and circuit means responsive following a preset period of delay after each operation of said scanning means to a predetermined disposition thereof to apply said power source for energizing said electric motor, and adjustable means in said circuit means operable to set saiD period of delay.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an electric motor, a source of power, and circuit means responsive upon each operation of said scanning means to a predetermined disposition thereof to apply said power source for energizing said electric motor, a mechanical connection including a gear train activated by a coupling thereof with said motor, and wherein said intermittent displacement means comprises a ratchet actuator driven by a connection thereof to said gear train and constituting a drive to a rotatable element engaging said record element.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3 additionally comprising a further gear train operatively associated with said surface contacting said sensor elements, and tiltable means carrying said means supporting said sensor elements and said further gear train, said tiltable means being operable to engage said further gear means with said coupled gear train whereby said motor is made effective to cyclically move said surface contacting said sensor element.
 5. The apparatus of claim 3 further comprising first and second preset-reset predetermining counters, a second cyclically movable surface, and a switch adapted to be cyclically closed and opened by said second surface, said gear train being operable each cycle to move said second surface whereby said switch is closed to complete a circuit applying said power source to operate said first counter to register therein a count for each operational cycle, said further means comprising a lister-adder machine including a plurality of digit keys and print and total keys, an arrangement of solenoid driven key actuators including one solenoid actuator for operating each of said keys, said scanning means comprising an automatically operable relay actuated stepper switch including rotatable contacts moved step by step to engage and sweep over a plurality of stationary contacts, said data-manifesting electrical means comprising an array of magnetically operable switches, each individually aligned with one of said magnetic means, a plurality of additional circuits completed by means of engaged contacts of said stepper switch and operated switchs of said array of switches acting to sequentially apply said power source to said solenoid actuators whereby digit keys are operated to insert a numerical value in said machine, further circuits completed by means of a switch actuated by operation of said first counter and further engaged contacts of said stepper switch acting to apply said power source to another one of said solenoid actuators whereby said print key is operated to print out said inserted numerical value, still further circuits completed by means of conduction through a transistor activated in response to completion of said further circuits to apply said power source to operate said second counter to register therein a count for each printout operation in said machine, and yet still further circuits completed by means of a switch actuated by operation of said second counter adapted to apply said power source to a still another one of said solenoid actuators whereby said total key is operated to print out on said further record element a total of said numerical values printed out, said yet still further circuits comprising a delay circuit operating to hold up application of said power source to energize said still another of said solenoid actuators for a period of time required to complete a printout of a numerical value in said machine.
 6. In a record sensing apparatus, a sensor arrangement comprising a frame, a plurality of orifices providing by openings therein reduced passages in upper and lower segments of said frame, said openings in said segments being disposed one above the other in pairs so as to facilitate with respect to each of said pairs the extension of a straight line path between and through said passages thereof, a plurality of rods, each of said pair of openings guiding within the passages thereof one of said rods which is thereby disposed to project abovE said upper segment and below said lower segment, each said rod having as integral parts thereof a pin extending straight down from the lower projection thereof, a generally horizontal angular extension affixed at a predetermined point on a lower part of each rod between said openings, a magnetic element affixed vertically on an upper part of each rod between said openings, and in vertical alignment with said angular extension, a major part of an area defined within said frame being covered by a panel accommodating for attachment thereto electrical components including a plurality of magnetically operated switch means, each said switch means being aligned with the path which a magnetic element contiguous to said switch takes when said rod is guided by said holes, a bracket made integral with a lower part of said frame, said bracket supporting for rotation therein a camming means operable in association with said angular extensions to effect a vertical lift and subsequent drop of said rods and the integral parts thereof.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said arrangement further comprises gear means, a rotatable shaft traversing said bracket and extending outside thereof so as to provide a stub shaft to which said gear means is secured, said traversing shaft providing a mount in said bracket for said camming means, a motor, and further gear means engageable with said gear means to transmit a drive from said motor to said traversing shaft. 